Summary of Anime Songs That Were Popular in 2021 [Buzzed-About & Hit Tracks]
2021 was a year when anime songs by a wide range of artists—such as music units and rock bands that enjoy overwhelming popularity, especially among young people—created a buzz.
Some of you may find yourselves replaying the opening and insert songs from your favorite anime.
In this article, we’ve curated a broad selection of tracks that gained popularity in 2021, from ballads that capture a sense of heartache to fiery, hype-inducing anthems.
You’re sure to discover anime songs whose lyrics, melodies, and overall musical worldview evoke the storylines and characters of their respective works.
Give a listen to these tracks where the artists’ musical styles intertwine beautifully with the anime.
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Compilation of Anime Songs That Were Popular in 2021 [Trending & Hit Tracks] (1–10)
My WarShinsei Kamattechan
The anime Attack on Titan The Final Season aired in 2021.
The song that drew attention when it was revealed as the opening theme in the first broadcast was “My War.” Written specifically for the show by the rock band Shinsei Kamattechan, it’s arranged with an operatic flair that seems to capture the anime’s grand and terrifying worldview.
A major feature of the piece is that the lyrics are structured in two parts.
The first half in English and the second half in Japanese convey the inner states of different characters.
Wadachi (Ruts)SPAYAIR
It’s a heart-stirring rock number that symbolizes the decade-long bond shared by Gintama and SPYAIR.
Released in January 2021 as the title track of the band’s first EP, it brilliantly crowned the finale of the story as the theme song for the film Gintama: The Final.
The lyrics convey the message that even if we move at different paces, walking together makes it a single path—perfectly reflecting the unbreakable bond of the Odd Jobs crew.
It’s an inspiring song that, when you want to reaffirm your ties with your friends, gives you the courage to step into tomorrow.
Like FlamesMindaRyn
MindaRyn is a Thai YouTuber and singer.
She created “Like Flames,” the opening theme for the anime That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 2.
It’s a high-energy rock song that made the anime even more exciting.
MindaRyn has long been an anime fan, and you can feel that love in the lyrics—that’s part of the appeal.
The more of an anime fan you are, the more you’ll likely empathize with it.
Summary of Anime Songs That Were Popular in 2021 [Trending & Popular Tracks] (11–20)
reverse dreamKing Gnu
This track, marked by a melancholic melody centered on strings and piano, was used as the ending theme for the film JUJUTSU KAISEN 0.
Released in December 2021, it features Daiki Tsuneta’s majestic string arrangements and a jazzy hip-hop groove characteristic of King Gnu.
The song delicately portrays the sorrow of losing a loved one and the aching longing for them, delving into the theme of pure love.
Its serene soundscape, punctuated by occasional dynamic shifts, draws listeners in and showcases King Gnu’s musical versatility.
It’s a mid-tempo number recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in a work that poetically captures sentimental emotions.
One Last KissHikaru Utada
A musician with a one-of-a-kind musicality who captivates listeners, Hikaru Utada released this track in 2021.
Written specifically as the theme song for the film Evangelion: 3.
0+1.
0 Thrice Upon a Time, it features a poignant melody that lingers in your mind.
The way words dart through the looping synths evokes the rise of hyperpop in today’s music scene.
Beautifully expressing the pain of parting with someone dear and the importance of growth, this song will stay close to your heart.
It’s a track brimming with the charm of an artist who has long led the J-pop scene.
VIVID VICEWho-ya Extended
Who-ya Extended is a creators’ unit known for producing many anime songs.
They also handled the opening theme for the second cour of the anime Jujutsu Kaisen, titled “VIVID VICE.” While it’s a rock song, the vocals aren’t overly intense and have an airy quality.
This approach reflects their desire to express the anime’s world and the characters’ growth.
Chasing Dreams!Special Week (CV: Azumi Waki), Silence Suzuka (CV: Marika Kouno), Tokai Teio (CV: Machico), Vodka (CV: Ayaka Ohashi), Daiwa Scarlet (CV: Chisaki Kimura), Gold Ship (CV: Hitomi Ueda), Mejiro McQueen (CV: Saori Ohnishi)
This song expresses the feeling of relentlessly pursuing your dreams and was released in February 2021.
It’s noted for its exhilarating sense of speed and catchy, pop-infused vocals.
Chosen as the opening theme for the anime Uma Musume: Pretty Derby Season 2, it garnered significant attention.
Performed by seven voice actors, the track’s charm lies in their diverse and distinctive voices, which blend into a beautifully balanced harmony.
It’s guaranteed to get the energy up if you sing it with friends at karaoke.
It’s also a great pick-me-up when you’re feeling down.